On the day that University of Arizona President Robert C. Robbins announced he would resign his position at the end of his current contract, some UA students were wondering what the next president would bring.
Sophomores, Helana Austin and Aleisha Velasquez said they feel like the university, under a new administration, should spend more money on the Native American Student Association and other marginalized groups on campus.
“Maybe we have a president who cares about these issues and who cares to take advice from people and doesn’t criticize or put down people,” Velasquez said.
“I feel like there will be a lot more opportunities that would happen here at the university if there was more funding,” Austin chimed in.
Student walking to class at the University of Arizona.
Junior Lizzy Sorensen wants to see an experienced president who wants to create a supportive campus and be accessible and transparent.
“They should have strong leadership skills, prioritize student success and engage with the community,” Sorensen said, adding that the next UA president should prioritize transparency by openly communicating decisions and involving those impacted in the decision-making process.
In his resignation announcement, emailed to students, faculty and staff Tuesday morning, Robbins said he would leave his position at the end of his contract, which expires in June 2026. But he noted that if the Arizona Board of Regents found his replacement before that time, he would step aside to ensure a smooth transition.
Students are hoping that the regents consider their input in that search process.
Arizona Sonoran News is a news service of the University of Arizona School of Journalism.
